HISTOCOMPATIBILITY COMPLICES Meaning and
Definition
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Histocompatibility complexes, also known as major histocompatibility complexes (MHC), are groups of genes present in most vertebrates that play a crucial role in the immune system and the body's ability to recognize and tolerate self and non-self antigens. These complexes encode cell surface proteins called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) in humans.
The histocompatibility complexes are involved in the regulation of adaptive immune responses and are responsible for distinguishing between self and foreign substances. They allow the immune system to recognize and eliminate pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, while also controlling autoimmune responses against the body's own cells. The presence and expression of specific MHC molecules influence the compatibility of tissues and organs for transplantation.
In humans, there are two major classes of MHC molecules: class I and class II. Class I molecules are found on the surface of almost all nucleated cells and present antigens to cytotoxic T cells, which help in the detection and elimination of infected or abnormal cells. Class II molecules are primarily found on antigen-presenting cells, such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells. They present antigens to helper T cells, which are essential for coordinating immune responses.
Histocompatibility complexes are highly polymorphic, meaning they exhibit extensive genetic variation. This polymorphism enhances the ability of the immune system to recognize a wide range of antigens. The variability in MHC genes also contributes to the diversity of immune responses among individuals and influences susceptibility to various diseases.
In summary, histocompatibility complexes are groups of genes that encode cell surface proteins involved in the immune system's ability to recognize self and non-self antigens. They are crucial for immune responses, tissue compatibility, and the regulation of transplantation outcomes.
Common Misspellings for HISTOCOMPATIBILITY COMPLICES
- gistocompatibility complices
- bistocompatibility complices
- nistocompatibility complices
- jistocompatibility complices
- uistocompatibility complices
- yistocompatibility complices
- hustocompatibility complices
- hjstocompatibility complices
- hkstocompatibility complices
- hostocompatibility complices
- h9stocompatibility complices
- h8stocompatibility complices
- hiatocompatibility complices
- hiztocompatibility complices
- hixtocompatibility complices
- hidtocompatibility complices
- hietocompatibility complices
- hiwtocompatibility complices
- hisrocompatibility complices
- hisfocompatibility complices
Etymology of HISTOCOMPATIBILITY COMPLICES
The term "Histocompatibility Complex" (not "complices") is derived from a combination of three words: "histo", "compatibility", and "complex".
1. "Histo" comes from the Greek word "histos", meaning "tissue". In biology and medicine, it refers to the study of cells, tissues, and organs.
2. "Compatibility" comes from the Latin word "compatibilis", meaning "fitting together". It refers to the ability of two or more things to exist or function together without conflict.
3. "Complex" comes from the Latin word "complexus", meaning "twisted together". In this context, it refers to a group of interconnected or interrelated components.
When combined, "histo" and "compatibility" in Histocompatibility Complex highlight the focus on tissue compatibility.
